In a surprising move that has caught the attention of many Nigerians, former Minister of Women Affairs Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye has returned to Nollywood with her new film titled “Hatred.” After spending a significant part of her recent years in government, Kennedy-Ohanenye is now back on the silver screen, ready to share her passion for filmmaking with her loyal fans.
Kennedy-Ohanenye served as a minister in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet. She was appointed on August 21, 2023, and held the post until she, along with four other cabinet members, was relieved of her duties on October 23, 2024. Her time in office saw her juggling the heavy responsibilities of a government role, but she always held a deep love for acting and producing movies—a love that began long before she entered politics.
Shortly after leaving her political position, the 51-year-old decided to return to what she enjoys most. In a move that delighted many Nollywood enthusiasts, she announced the release of her film “Hatred” on Wednesday through a post on X (formerly known as Twitter). Along with her announcement, she shared a link to the film on her YouTube channel, Kenuj TV. This simple act marked her official comeback to the film industry.
Kennedy-Ohanenye is not new to Nollywood. Over the years, she has acted in several popular films such as Saving My Marriage, Hunting the Angel, Royal Ploy, and The Cow Girls. She has had the chance to work with some of the industry’s respected veterans, including Segun Arinze, Ngozi Ezeonu, Linda Osifo, and Francis Duru. These roles helped her build a strong reputation as a talented actress and a dedicated film producer.
Before her stint in politics, Kennedy-Ohanenye enjoyed a vibrant career in Nollywood. Her early work in the film industry won her many fans and gave her the experience needed to navigate both the creative and business sides of movie making. Even as she later decided to enter politics, her love for film never left her. Now, with “Hatred,” she is showing that her passion for cinema remains as strong as ever.
Her return to film comes at an interesting time in Nigeria. Nollywood has grown into one of the largest film industries in the world, producing hundreds of movies every year. The industry plays an important role in the Nigerian economy and culture by giving many young people a chance to follow their dreams. Kennedy-Ohanenye’s comeback is a reminder that even those who take a break to serve in government can find their way back to their roots and contribute to the growth of Nollywood.
Kennedy-Ohanenye is a woman of many talents. Not only is she an experienced actress and film producer, but she is also a trained lawyer and a successful entrepreneur. In 2015, she joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) and made history by being the first woman in the party to declare a presidential ambition for the 2023 elections. Although she later stepped down to support President Tinubu’s candidacy, her move into politics was a significant moment in her career and in Nigerian political history.
After her time in government, many expected Kennedy-Ohanenye to remain in politics or move on to another high-profile role. Instead, she chose to return to the film industry—a decision that speaks to her strong desire to pursue her passion. Her new movie, “Hatred,” is a project that she produced herself, and it marks a fresh start in a field where she already has a strong reputation.
While details about the movie’s plot have not been widely shared, the title “Hatred” hints at a story that may deal with strong emotions and conflicts. The film could explore themes such as rivalry, betrayal, or the deep-seated struggles that arise from personal or social injustices. The title alone has sparked the curiosity of many fans and film critics who are eager to see how Kennedy-Ohanenye will bring these themes to life on screen.
Her return to Nollywood is being welcomed by many in the film community. Friends and colleagues in the industry have noted that her presence brings back a familiar face and a creative force that they have missed over the years. Many believe that her unique background—a blend of politics, law, business, and film—will add a fresh perspective to her work and contribute to the growing richness of Nigerian cinema.
Nollywood has a long history of actors and filmmakers who have taken unconventional paths to success. Kennedy-Ohanenye’s journey from the halls of government back to the sets of movie studios is a powerful example of following one’s dreams. Her story shows that a person can succeed in more than one field and that a change in career direction can lead to new opportunities and renewed passion.
Her decision to leave politics and return to film may also serve as an inspiration for young Nigerians who face challenges in their own lives. Many people look up to her as a role model because she has shown that it is possible to pursue different interests and to overcome obstacles along the way. In a country where the film industry is a major source of hope and pride for many, Kennedy-Ohanenye’s return is a positive sign that talent and hard work can open new doors.
For some, her time in government might seem like a detour from her true passion, but for Kennedy-Ohanenye, it appears to have been an important part of her journey. Her experience in politics has given her a broader view of the challenges facing Nigeria, and this perspective may well influence her work in Nollywood. By bringing real-life experiences into her films, she may help tell stories that resonate with many people who face similar struggles in their own lives.
The comeback of Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye is also a reminder of the close relationship between art and society. Movies have long been a way for people to share their stories, express their feelings, and bring about change. In returning to the film industry, Kennedy-Ohanenye is not just reviving her career; she is also contributing to a vibrant cultural scene that has the power to shape opinions and bring communities together.
As the film “Hatred” makes its way into theaters and onto online platforms, fans of Nollywood and of Kennedy-Ohanenye’s earlier work are eagerly waiting to see her performance. Early viewers who have seen clips of the movie on Kenuj TV have expressed their excitement on social media, praising her acting skills and the bold choice of the film’s subject matter. These positive reactions add to the anticipation surrounding her full comeback to the industry.
In the coming months, it is expected that more details about “Hatred” will be revealed, including its storyline, cast, and the message that Kennedy-Ohanenye wishes to send to her audience. There is a growing hope among film lovers that her new work will open up fresh discussions about social issues and the role of art in addressing them. Many believe that her movie could spark conversations that bring people together in understanding and reflection.
